Willow structures, as many early years settings are finding, are an ideal way to provide fresh learning experiences and play opportunities for young children in the outdoor area, especially in the summer months.
Great Crosby Primary School in Liverpool planted a willow tunnel and dome in January, and it has now sprouted to form a dense and leafy canopy. Head teacher Peter O'Dowd says the living willow has been an enormous success with the nursery children. 'The children are just mesmerised by it. They play in the tunnel at every opportunity,' he says. 'They were fascinated when the willow started to grow and the buds slowly turned to leaves.'
Willow structures present many opportunities for curriculum-based projects.
Domes and tunnels make exciting outdoor classrooms, providing the basis for science and art projects. Children can study the animals, birds and insects that the willow foliage attracts. At Great Crosby School they have learned about growing conditions and monitored the speed of the willow growth.
Once established, sticks can be harvested from the willow structures and used in arts and craft sessions. The strong and highly flexible shoots are ideal for activities such as basket-weaving and making lanterns.
Willow canopies also provide children with welcome shade from the sun in the summer months. Along with 50 other schools and nurseries in the Liverpool area, Great Crosby School has received funding for its willow structures from the Sefton Living Shade Project, which aims to raise awareness of sun protection and prevention of skin cancer through the use of natural shade. The project has been running for five years and is financed by the Merseyside Health Action Zone, with support from Sure Start and the Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership.
Planting time
Jo McCuller, health promotions specialist for the project, says, 'Our research has shown that most playgrounds do not have sufficient shade for children. Overexposure to sun before the age of 18 greatly increases the risk of skin cancer, so we are looking for ways to provide sustainable shade for children. Willow structures can provide exactly that.'
The willow-planting season begins in November, so planting this winter will provide a thick, shady canopy by next summer.
In constructing willow structures it's vital to have expert help to prepare the ground, provide the mulch that prevents weed growth, and ensure the structure is woven properly and securely. However, once established, the sturdy structures require little maintenance, leaving children to enjoy the delights of willow for years to come.
More information
Willowpool Designs constructs willow domes, tunnels, fences and arbours up and down the country. Most structures take two days to complete, and all labour and materials are provided for 300 a day. For more information contact Simon Fuller and Simone Siegan on 01539 567056 or visit www.geocities. com/willowpool.